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SignOn ICT Training+, a smart solution for a smart client
Background
For over 20 years, SignOn has been offering open enrollment and in-company training in ICT at all levels. They work in a demand-driven and practical manner, serving government organizations and companies throughout the Netherlands. SignOn works exclusively with the best, specialized trainers.
Project Request
Franklin and Eveline from SignOn have the distinction of being the very first. It was meant to be. They initially worked with a company “across the street,” but as SignOn’s client profile no longer aligned with that company’s DNA, they were referred to FBI Digital.
This happened to coincide with the moment SignOn needed a Coachview integration for their website.
Through mutual connections, an appointment was arranged, and together, we embarked on an adventure. The task was to connect a new WordPress website with the course administration package (software) from Coachview.
In 2019, the Coachview package had limited options for integrating with a website outside of its own portal, except through a somewhat fragile one-way queue connection using the now outdated SOAP protocol.
However, Franklin from SignOn was certain; he had researched and compared all options from A to Z, and this was the best solution for SignOn.
So, we began with the necessary research into the possibilities for connecting general training data to the website we were developing for SignOn.
Techniques & Services
As with everything in life, the first implementation of data in the website was a journey to find the right combination of techniques. Structural decisions had to be made regarding architecture, information structure, and data distribution.
User Experience and user interface also required careful consideration. We began by gathering the client’s wishes and vision for creating a Minimal Viable Product. With this input in mind, we started our research into the possibilities for a direct connection with Coachview data, ultimately leading to a prototype.
Of course, we wanted to ensure we weren’t presenting unrealistic expectations to SignOn, so we rigorously assessed the feasibility of the project.
This investment in time allowed FBI to conclude that it was possible without affecting the new website’s searchability or performance. The effort was well worth it, considering the expertise we have developed in this area since.
Later, we added Global Knowledge’s training data to the offering via a custom XML feed, an EDU-DEX feed, and an Excel feed specifically for UWV training reposting. You can find more about our experiences in building data integrations on this special page.
Results
The original version of SignOn’s website dates back to 2019. The site was built using a combination of the best of both worlds—training data from Coachview and web content managed within the WordPress Content Management System.
The site has since undergone two generations of design and technology improvements, but the core functionality remains the same.
Behind the scenes, the connection was converted to a REST API, and Global Knowledge’s training offerings were added to the list. We initially built a connection for posting training data on Springest and later through EDU-DEX for distribution on various major online portals.
Since UWV uses a unique Excel (xls) standard for reposting trainings on their education portal, we also developed a dedicated module for this purpose.
Status
Currently, we are further developing several specific features, including a quote manager for in-company trainings, automated evaluation forms, and the technical and content setup of the Buddyboss e-learning environment.
But most importantly, SignOn is thrilled with the excellent conversion the website delivers, the automation of various time-consuming, repetitive tasks, and the collaboration we have enjoyed for years.
So we make eachother shine! Now that’s what we have to offer to all our clients.
We team up to create a situation with a happy client and a satisfied provider`over a long period of time!!
Highlights
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